Chiang Mai Thailand Travel Tips

Travel Tips for Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a vibrant city with plenty to offer travelers. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:

Getting Around:

  • Songthaews: These iconic red trucks are a cheap and cheerful way to get around, acting as shared taxis. Negotiate the price before you hop in!
  • Motorbike Rentals: A popular option for getting to less touristy areas, but be mindful of traffic conditions and drive safely.
  • Tuk Tuks: Fun for short distances, but they are often more expensive than songthaews. Always negotiate the fare beforehand.

Things to Do:

  • Temples: Don’t miss exploring the stunning temples of Chiang Mai, like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Wat Chedi Luang.

  • Markets: Immerse yourself in the local culture at the bustling night markets, especially the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.

  • Nature & Adventure:

    • Elephant Sanctuary Experience: Choose ethical elephant sanctuaries that prioritize rescue and conservation, not riding or shows.
    • Doi Inthanon National Park: Hike to the summit of Thailand’s highest peak and enjoy the breathtaking views.
    • Explore the Mountains: Chiang Mai is surrounded by beautiful mountains.

Where to Stay:

  • Old City: Stay within the walls for a charming, traditional experience and easy access to temples and markets.

  • Nimmanhaemin Road: Known for its trendy cafes, boutiques, and nightlife, this area is great for younger travelers or those seeking a more modern vibe.

    • Consider:

Accommodation Tips:

  • Stay in a Hostel: For budget-friendly travel, meet fellow backpackers and experience the social side of Chiang Mai.
  • Look for Boutique Hotels: Many charming and unique boutique hotels offer a more personalized stay within the city’s historical setting.

Where to Eat:

  • Embrace Street Food: Enjoy authentic and affordable Thai cuisine from the countless street vendors and stalls around the city.
  • Try Local Restaurants: Chiang Mai is full of delicious, local eateries. Look for ones off the beaten path and ask for recommendations from friendly locals or your hotel staff.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn to cook traditional Thai dishes yourself.

Food & Drink Tips:

  • Khao Soi: A must-try local dish! This creamy coconut curry noodle soup is a delicious culinary icon of Chiang Mai.
  • Bargain for Prices: Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices at local markets and with street vendors. It’s expected!

Food & Drink Experiences:

  • Explore the Night Markets:

Things to Consider:

  • Budget: Chiang Mai can be enjoyed on a variety of budgets, from cheap hostels to luxurious resorts.**

Where to Stay:

  • Budget-Friendly:

    • Hostel: For meeting other travelers and saving money.

  • Local Restaurants:

Food & Drink Experiences:

  • Mid-Range Hotels: A good balance between affordability and comfort.
  • Restaurants with Views: Try the “Doi Suthep Viewpoint” for a meal with a stunning panorama.

Food & Drink Prices:

  • Expect to pay: 50-100 baht for a simple meal at a local eatery.

Food & Drink Recommendations:

  • Khao Soi: A delicious and creamy curry noodle soup, typically with chicken (or beef) and a variety of toppings like lime, crispy noodles, and pickled vegetables.
  • Northern Thai Cuisine: Sample the unique flavors of Chiang Mai’s northern cuisine, known for its spicy, flavorful dishes.
  • Fresh Fruit Smoothies: A refreshing treat after exploring the city, readily available at many markets.

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Respectful Dress: Dress modestly when visiting temples. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • Water Safety: Be cautious when drinking tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing your teeth.

Chiang Mai Food & Drink Tips:

  • Try the local markets: You can find delicious, authentic and affordable food in Chiang Mai’s many night markets.
  • Drink plenty of water: The humidity and heat can be dehydrating.

Cultural Considerations:

  • Dress Code: When visiting temples, remember to cover your shoulders and knees.
  • Shoes: It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering temples.

Food & Drink Safety:

  • Drink bottled water: Even when eating at restaurants with a “safe” reputation, it’s best to stick to bottled water for safety.**

  • Avoid tap water: Unless you are sure it is safe, always opt for bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.

  • Be mindful of food hygiene: Opt for restaurants that look clean and well-maintained. Observe the kitchen cleanliness if possible (especially when choosing street food vendors) and check reviews online.

Things to See & Do:

  • Explore the temples: Visit the numerous Buddhist temples scattered throughout Chiang Mai, a testament to the city’s rich history and culture.
  • Wander through Night Markets: Immerse yourself in the vibrant stalls of Chiang Mai’s night markets, offering everything from handicrafts to street food.
  • Northern Thai Culture:

Things & Experiences to Try:

  • Cooking Classes:

Learn to cook delicious Northern Thai dishes like Khao Soi (Chiang Mai’s famous curry noodle soup) or a variety of other local delicacies.

  • Adventure Activities: Enjoy the thrill of trekking through the mountains, ziplining across lush valleys, and rafting down rapids.
  • Visit Doi Suthep: This must-visit temple on the mountain offers stunning views of Chiang Mai and the surrounding mountains.
  • Elephant Sanctuary Experience: Explore ethical elephant sanctuaries that offer a chance to interact with these gentle giants in a respectful way.

Food & Drink Experiences:

  • Ethical Tourism: Respect the animal’s well-being:

Choose your accommodation wisely:

  • Stay in a guesthouse or hostel run by local people who are passionate about sharing their culture and providing a safe and ethical experience for elephants.
  • Consider:

Local experiences:

  • Seek out ethically conscious businesses.
  • Consider the following:
    • Elephant Sanctuary Experiences:

Look for a reputable elephant sanctuary that prioritizes ethical treatment and conservation of these animals.

Food & Drink:

  • Ethical Elephant Treatment:

Choose sanctuaries that are ethical and transparent.

  • Respectful Interactions:

Avoid those that offer elephant rides or activities like this.

  • Local Food:

Look for opportunities to enjoy authentic local dishes, such as Khao Soi at the temple markets.